The NYC Influencer world adores this stylish duo called: Amra and Elma Beganovich. They shared with us their 7 Favorite Spots in NYC, so check them out below!
We recently interviewed a super talented duo that is changing and rockin’ the influencer world in New York City!
Amra Beganovich, a former Economist and Elma Beganovich, a former Lawyer decided to dive into the Social Media universe and today are considered two of the top Digital Influencers in NY, with a successful influencer led marketing agency.
Amra Beganovich
“After toiling away as an economist on World Bank projects for a few years, my sister and I realized that our calling lied elsewhere – like many of our millennial peers, we started dabbling in the digital space.
We began blogging in late 2012 on our website Club Fashionista and that quickly grew into our own brand Amra & Elma, which now is the only influencer lead digital marketing agency. With our own 2.3M following and a network of over 300,000 consumer influencers, we specialize in making brands explode in the digital space.
Our services include photo production, no-fee blogger program, social media management and media outreach. We have also contributed to some of the most prominent publications such as ELLE, InStyle, Marie Claire, Business Insider, and Bloomberg.
Some of our high-profile clients include: Uber, SmartWater, Johnson & Johnson, Avon, Make Up For Ever, E S P R I T, and Dr. Marten’s. I currently reside in New York City but make an effort to escape and travel as often as I can as I find a great deal of creative inspiration in all corners of the world.”
Elma Beganovich
“When my career in law seemed to spiral into a rut and started looking like a dead-end job, I took a leap of faith (in myself mostly) and joined my sister Amra, who was working on her blog and digging deep in the social media and digital space.
Blogging soon grew into our careers as digital influencers, which then turned into our own namesake brand Amra & Elma – the only influencer founded digital media agency. We focus on social media and digital influencer marketing. We are proud of our own 2.3M following on social, and boast a network of over 300,000 consumer influencers, many of whom are our personal friends and colleagues.
As mentioned above, our goal is to help brands catch fire in the digital space, and our services include photo production with professional models and/or influencers, no-fee blogger program, social media management, and media outreach.
We have also contributed to some of the most prominent publications. I currently reside in New York City but enjoy traveling whenever possible in order to break free of the everyday and nurture my creativity.”
Take a look at their Top 7 Favorite Spots in NYC:
Serge Normant at John Frieda
“We love the entire team at this salon named Serge Normant at John Frieda – from the colorists to the hairstylists, they really know hair and can make a girl feel “oh so fabulous”. The setting is cozy – they serve you tea right as you come in – and upstairs, there is a beautiful deck allowing one to go out and catch a breath of fresh air in this busy city.”
Manhattan is not only the center of fashion, but also a center for beauty! With so many amazing spots, it’s definitely hard to pick one!
One of the leading hair stylist in NYC, Serge Normant, partnered up with John Frieda, famous for his signature Hair Care Line.
Together, they founded Serge Normant at John Frieda.
Locations:
30 East 76th Street, Upper East Side
336 West 23rd Street, Chelsea
“In this tucked away café/restaurant, one can find the best cappuccino and tiramisu (made in house) in town! Via Quadronno is gem located a few blocks from the MET Museum. This makes it a perfect spot to stop and have lunch and dessert with your girlfriends after an afternoon in the regal museum.”
Via Quadronno is a traditional Italian restaurant, located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.
It was founded in 1999. It’s known for being a paninoteca, serving truffled paninis and delicious homemade pastries paired with irresistible cappuccinos.
As they explain:
“Mankind trained dogs and pigs to sniff for white truffles, assisting in the quest for this heavenly treat. Wild boars don’t need training: they instinctively know how to locate truffles, for they have been enjoying them for millennia. It is the boar’s nose for truffles that helped fuel his reputation as the undisputed gourmet of the animal kingdom.”
Location:
25 East 73th Street, Upper East Side
1228 Madison Avenue, Upper East Side
“Exhale is one of our favorites spas to frequent because of the barre classes and the studio’s relaxing ambiance. One can also make it an all around experience by opting for a spa treatment after a rigorous exercise.”
Yes, Exhale is located in a bit touristy location.
But, it known for being an ‘award-winning flagship spa and boutique fitness studios with expertly created Barre, Yoga, Cardio + HIIT classes’.
Besides these classes, you can schedule treatments like: Facials, Massages, Acu-Healing, Scrubs, Manicure, Waxing and several other amazing services.
There is nothing better than finding some down time to take care of yourself!
Be sure to try them out! But, be careful, it can be addictive.
“The Storm King Art Center almost seems magical with its outdoor sculptures, which are the best to experience during the spring and summer months. It’s a perfect place to observe art and absorb the refreshing outdoors scenery away from the concrete and the hectic energy of Manhattan.”
This outdoor museum will open again in a few days and we can’t wait to go there again!
You’ll find more than 100 gorgeous installations, spread throughout over 500 hectares of green landscape!
Art pieces by names like Roy Lichtenstein, Calder, Zhang Huan and Louis Bourgois are just the start!
“The Frick Collection is like a little oasis secluded from the business of Manhattan with its marvelous art and majestic garden spaces and sculptures. I would suggest going here to catch a break and for a little time travel into the early 1900s.”
We all know that New York City hosts some of the richest and most important museums in the world!
In addition, we know that it’s always tempting to visit all of them when you’re visiting the city. That is, if you’re interested in art, of course.
The Frick Collection is surely one of these great spots.
And, it showcases one of the most important collections of Western fine art today.
UNFORTUNATELY THIS COFFEE SHOP IS PERMANENTLY CLOSED!
“This is one of our favorite spots during NYFW as influencers all across the world gather here between shows to sip on their favorite coffee and tasty (and healthy) treats. The café is tucked away on the second floor of the store allowing one to catch a break during a busy day.”
We all know about the massive Ralph Lauren flagship store located in the heart of 5th Avenue.
But, not many people know about a tiny coffee shop inside it. It’s certainly a great space to escape the Manhattan chaos!
Their coffee ‘is certified organic, ethically and sustainably sourced’, which does make all the difference!
“Bleecker Street is not only what it appears in blockbuster movies, like the Time Machine and Doctor Strange, it’s that much more! I love this promenade for its shops and cafes. The street is located in West Village and its beauty is striking with the brown bricks, cobblestones and cozy shops.”
The West Village is surely one of the top 3 restaurants we most love in Manhattan. We are always around that area exploring new spots or just roaming around the beautiful streets.
It’s predominately a residential neighborhood, but the small shops, coffees and restaurants give it a lively vibe!
We love what the guys at The West Village Life doing to share the neighborhood’s beauty – picture are all theirs.
Location: Bleecker Street, West Village
To wrap up, we asked them two fun questions:
What does NYC mean to both of you?
“I believe New York City means opportunity. Opportunity to feed off of the bustling energy and to learn from some of the most talented people in the world. It is a city where trends are started and dreams made. At the same time, one must stay weary and escape now and then and to catch a piece of mind and put it all into a perspective.
I think it is important to stay grounded and humbled. And, not to let so many of the temptations this city has to offer distract and interfere with one’s core values. Whatever the end-goal – why you came to this city – don’t even forget to take one day per week to yourself. And, just let loose and have fun.”
What would you girls tell a 1st timer in NY?
“I would share with a 1st timer in New York to take it all one step at a time. Also, to be more observant in order to learn rather than dive readily into action.
Also, I would tell him/her to enjoy the variety the city has to offer. From different districts to spectacular sites, like the views from the top of the Rockefeller Center and the Metropolitan Museum of Arts.
Finally, as mentioned above, don’t forget to go away now and then to catch your breath. Plus, let it all sink in to gain a better perspective on life and to prosper personally and in your career.”
Thank you Amra and Elma for being part of our Insider Interviews and sharing your favorite spots in NY!
It’s getting warmer, guys! Our friend and contributor Vicky Toni, that is super into cultural stuff, has suggested a great day trip getaway that we love: Storm King Art Center. It’s the perfect NY cultural escape!
Here is what Vicky shares with us about her experience at Storm King!
Sounds like the perfect timing to escape the city and explore the Hudson Valley. One of its gems is the Storm King Art Center – a contemporary outdoor sculpture museum where you can enjoy a nice cultural day outdoors.
To start, it’s located in the lower Hudson area, one hour north of New York. The property has 500-acre landscape of fields, hills and woodlands.
This outdoor museum features a collection with more than 100 sculptures created by renowned artists like Barnett Newman, Louise Bourgeois, Maya Lin and Richard Serra.
A great way to experience their landscape has to offer is touring the gardens on a bike!
Rentals are first-come, first-served, so be sure to see that as soon as you get there.
They also offer a small kiosk with food and drinks, but don’t expect a huge sit down lunch. Options are limited and if you have any food restrictions, we recommend you bringing something from home to guarantee you’ll be fine!
In addition, one of the options to get to Storm King is via Metro North train from Grand Central Terminal, to Beacon. Then, you can get a taxi from Beacon to the Storm King.”
Lastly, Storm King reopens Wednesday, April 5th at 10am!
They are offering a free Storm King Family Membership to their first visitor on the 5th! So, if you’re interested, don’t forget to hurry up there.
Admissions:
$18 – Adults
$15 – Seniors (65+ with valid ID)
$8 – Ages 5 – 18 and Students (with valid ID)
Free – Children under 4 and Members
Hours:
April 5 – August 31: Wednesday – Sunday: 10am – 5:30pm
Extended Summer Hours: May 26 – September 2: Open until 8pm Friday & Saturday
September 4 – October 31: Wednesday – Monday (closed Tuesday): 10am – 5:30pm
Early Weekends: September 2 – October 29: Open at 9am Saturday & Sunday
November: Wednesday – Sunday: 10am – 4:30pm
“The Borscht Belt: Revisiting the Remains of America’s Jewish Vacationland” is a great book by Marisa Scheinfeld! It shows gorgeous shots of ‘abandoned sites where resorts, hotels, and bungalow colonies once boomed in the Catskill Mountain region of upstate New York’.
We love the Catskills region of upstate New York. Moreover, we are also fascinated in exploring abandoned spots where there once was an entire booming scene of people and life!
It’s incredible to learn what happened to these places. Why it became forgotten and to be able to walk through and register what it has transformed into.
If you L-O-V-E photography books and these abandoned locations, then you’ll love this book! It’s called “The Borscht Belt: Revisiting the Remains of America’s Jewish Vacationland”, by Marisa Scheinfeld.
It takes place in the Catskills Mountain Region, in upstate New York. In addition, it has some of the most intriguing images that will entice your curiosity.
Below is an excerpt from Marisa’s website where she explains with more details what this project is about.
“Today the Borscht Belt is recalled through the nostalgic lens of summer swims, Saturday night dances, and comedy performances. But its current state, like that of many other formerly glorious regions, is nothing like its earlier status.
Forgotten about and exhausted, much of its structural environment has been left to decay. The Borscht Belt, which features essays by Stefan Kanfer and Jenna Weissman Joselit, presents Marisa Scheinfeld’s photographs of abandoned sites. There, resorts, hotels, and bungalow colonies once boomed in the Catskill Mountain region of upstate New York.
The book assembles images Scheinfeld has shot inside and outside locations that once buzzed with life as year-round havens for generations of people. Some of the structures have been lying abandoned for periods ranging from four to twenty years, depending on the specific hotel or bungalow colony and the conditions under which it closed.
Other sites have since been demolished or repurposed. This makes this book an even more significant documentation of a pivotal era in American Jewish history.
The Borscht Belt presents a contemporary view of more than forty hotel and bungalow sites. From entire expanses of abandoned properties to small lots containing drained swimming pools, the remains of the Borscht Belt era now lie forgotten, overgrown, and vacant.
In the absence of human activity, nature has reclaimed the sites, having encroached upon or completely overtaken them. Many of the interiors have been vandalized or marked by paintball players and graffiti artists.
Each ruin lies radically altered by the elements and effects of time. Scheinfeld’s images record all of these developments.”
Take a look at Marisa’s countless upcoming events. These are great opportunities to meet her and get your book signed!
She is an extremely sweet person, besides obviously, extremely talented.
Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa was founded in 1926 by the couple Climena Alford, a native of Lake Placid, and her husband, William Rufus Wikoff from Massachusetts. It’s one of the best resorts in the US!
In no time, Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa was transformed from an old estate into one of the most high quality resorts in the US.
Therefore, in no time their reputation spread everywhere and attracted wealthy guest from all over the state, and specially from New York City.
The Inn was always involved with sports events where they hosted entire teams. Also, they enjoyed sport-related innovation like the first electric rope-tow, the first snow making machine and the first bobsled run!
With locally sourced, fresh ingredients, they are also famous for their delicious food and treats!
They offer 3 dining options at the resort: The View – Lake Placid’s only AAA Four-Diamond “Exceptional” rated restaurant; Taste Bistro & Bar – serving a casual dinner and cocktails; and The Cottage – a great hangout spot year-round and named one of the top Après Ski spots in North America, by the readers of Ski Magazine!
In addition, they have a fantastic SPA that offers countless incredible treatments like the Vichy Shower and different massages with different purposes. Pamper yourself with the marine-based skincare product line, Phytomer. For the gals, manicure and pedicures are available and for the gentlemen, a variety of services too.
And, of course, pool, sauna, jacuzzi. Yes, they have it all!
Are you into fitness? You can book your personal trainer and hit the gym at any time!
With extremely comfortable and classically decorated rooms, you’ll certainly feel the nostalgic vibe! Take a look at the accommodation options.
It’s a 4-5h trip from New York City and definitely worth it!
In addition, they’ve been featured by renowned publications like Condé Nast Traveler, so do check them out if you’re planning an escape up state.
So, we have no doubt that you’ll have the most fantastic and relaxing time at the Mirror Lake Inn. Enjoy!
You might also want to take a look at a few other Day Trip ideas!
The NYC Blogger, Jenna Rice, from the Blond Well Traveled, shared with us a mix’n’match of 10 great NYC tips! From restaurants, hotels and bagel spots, to upstate trips, art galleries and beauty salons.
Jenna Rice was born and raised in Florida, and currently lives in New York City.
She told us: “I followed my heart around the globe and landed in New York City.” Definitely a great place to land, right?!
She launched her passion project: a travel and lifestyle blog called Blonde Well Traveled, in 2015. Plus, she’s visited over 15 countries and doesn’t stop counting.
Since she moved to the “City that Never Sleeps”, she’s been sharing a glimpse into her experiences both within the city and beyond. All this, in addition to working full time in Public Relations.
Such a busy bee!
Take a look at her 10 favorite NYC spots and in nearby towns:
Brooklyn Flea
“Brooklyn Flea is basically the cooler younger sister to Chelsea Market. There’s something for everyone, from vintage rings and designer bags to viney plants and eclectic home decor. Not to mention, they have some of the most popular food vendors from Smorgasburg minus the lines.”
We love Brooklyn! We’re Brooklyn-based and even though the Brooklyn Flea can get a bit touristy, we still love it!
In addition, you’ll find 75 vendors with everything from clothes and accessories, to furniture and jewelry, plus 25 food vendors with the most delicious dishes.
During the winter they have only one location and it happens during the weekends: Saturday + Sunday from 10am – 6pm – called Winter Flea + Smorgasburg.
“Mile High Run Club is probably my favorite place to break a sweat in the City. It’s essentially a treadmill class with dimmed lighting, bumpin’ music and strobe lights…with a coach cheering you on through a series of intervals and hills. I recommend Dash 28 because it finishes with strength training utilizing kettle bells and core exercises.”
Do you like “the burn”? I mean, REALLY like it? Well, if your immediate answer was “YES!”, then this is the place for you!
Mile High Run Club’s running program is uniquely designed to challenge your body and get the best results you’d ever imagine. Go to one of their 2 locations to try it out.
Plus, they offer indoor and outdoor classes, with amazing coaches! We’re sure it’ll become your newest addiction!
Locations:
28 East 4th Street, NoHo
24 West 25th Street, NoMad
“Heyday is easily one of my best NYC finds. My skin went nuts when I moved to the City in the heart of winter from Florida, and this place introduced me to several natural products that I now swear by.”
The weather in NYC can be pretty crazy and will test your skin to the limit!
And, summer can be burning hot, hot, hot, while the winter can be pretty damn harsh where we feel our skin will rip with the cold.
Yeah, we know, it sounds terrible, right?
Well, we are IN NEW YORK CITY of obviously that helps make it easier to accept, LOL.
HeyDay is a great place to go if you’re looking for the perfect facial, with a good price, at the time that’ll suit you best. Carly Heitlinger also loves it!
“For those who need a breather from the City, Harriman State Park is your sanctuary. It’s just a quick train ride from the city and much less crowded than some of the other hiking spots like Breakneck and Bear Mountain.”
Harriman State Park is located in Rockland and Orange Counties, Upstate NY – a little over 1h drive from Manhattan. The drive is actually a very quick and surely a gorgeous car ride up there.
They have almost 52,000 acres of mostly forested landscape and over 23miles of hiking trails.
So, what are you waiting for? Go grab (or rent here) a car, and have fun!
And, more about them:
“At 47,527 acres (192.33 km2), Harriman State Park is the second largest state park in New York. Located in Rockland and Orange counties 30 miles (48 km) north of New York City, it is a haven for hikers with over 200 miles (320 km) of hiking trails. The park is also known for its 31 lakes, multiple streams, public camping area, and great vistas.”
“The Jane is easily my favorite spot to go out in the City. It basically feels like you’re at a mansion party where your favorite songs are always playing and dancing on the furniture is encouraged. Every time I have a friend visiting, I take them there and they’re never disappointed.”
Yup! It’s one of our favorite spots too!
The Jane Hotel, is located in the West Village and is certainly a destination for the cool NYC crowd.
In addition, the hotel was launched in 1908 and has rooms that replicate luxury ship and train cabins. On the other hand, rooms are pretty small, but come on, “Who” comes to NYC to stay in the room, right!?
“For an intimate live music experience, hit up Rockwood Music Hall. A friend introduced me to this venue and it was everything I could’ve hoped for. While there are shows that require cover, there is a smaller room to the left of the main entrance that is free of charge.”
Rockwood Music Hall is known for having hosted performances of great artists like Lady Gaga, Gary Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day and Mumford & Sons.
It’s one our favorite spots to have a cool night out and listen to some of the best emerging NYC bands and musicians.
“After a night out, nothing compares to Black Seed Bagels. Option #11 always satisfies! Another favorite is Tompkins Square Bagels if you’re in the mood for trying out a new cream cheese flavor like birthday cake or one of their French toast bagels.”
Bagels! We just love Bagels!
And, New York’s bagels are said to be one of the best on this planet, since our water is so fantastically clean and tasty!
Black Seed Bagels is certainly one of the most famous in town. In addition, Tompkins Square Bagels’ are hand rolled, kettle boiled and baked over wood planks….yum!!!
Locations:
Black Seed Bagels:
170 Elizabeth Street, Nolita
200 Vesey Street, Battery Park City
176 First Street, East Village
“Original Buddha Bodai is an incredible vegetarian spot in Chinatown. The food is delicious (you can’t even tell there’s no meat) and the atmosphere is so authentic. I highly recommend the sesame “chicken”.”
OMG! When our Founder, Fê Paronetto, went with a very good friend to Buddha Bodai, she became c-o-m-p-l-e-t-e-l-y addicted to it!
She’s vegetarian, but loves Vegan food too, and she couldn’t believe how amazingly tasty everything was!
The dumplings are to-die-for, but everything is remarkably good! But, it’s actually hard to know what exactly to order, so you might just have to go there multiple times to try it all.
“Dia:Beacon is the perfect day trip for anyone craving a little artistic adventure, especially if you love installations! Be sure to purchase a round trip ticket with museum entrance included at Grand Central Station.”
Dia:Beacon is surely a highlight if you’re into Art.
Located only 1.5h from Manhattan, it’s a beautiful place to visit and the trip there, is pretty easy too. And, if you’re not sure how to get there, and would like help, contact our concierge experts.
In addition, if you need assistance for any corporate activity with your team or clients, let our experts cater to all your needs and make the experience memorable.
“One of my favorite things to do on the weekend is pop into galleries in the LES and Chelsea. It’s a great alternative to hitting up a crowded museum, plus they’re completely free to enjoy: David Zwirner, Paul Kasmin, and Richard Taittinger are a few of my go-tos.”
David Zwirner
David Zwirner is one of the top contemporary art galleries, with another location overseas, in Mayfair, London. They currently have 2 great exhibitions: “Yun Hyong-keun” up through February 18th and “Drawn Together”, up through February 18th.
“The David Zwirner gallery is pleased to present an exhibition of large-scale paintings by Yun Hyong-keun (1928-2007) from the mid-1970s through the 1980s. The exhibition includes an unprecedented selection of paintings in the artist’s unique style of monochromatic abstraction, several of which are shown here for the first time. The exhibition marks the largest solo presentation of Yun’s work in North America to date.” ~ Read more here.
“David Zwirner is pleased to present the gallery’s first exhibition of the collaborative work of Aline Kominsky-Crumb and R. Crumb. Both pioneers of underground and alternative comics, Kominsky-Crumb and Crumb have created a groundbreaking portrait of their shared lives and creative collaborations over the past four decades. In their ongoing “Aline & Bob” comics, the two artists have rendered their innermost thoughts, fears, and fantasies alongside the day-to-day realities of family life in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, each in their own distinctive style.” ~ Read more here.
Paul Kasmin Gallery
Paul Kasmin Gallery works and supports influential Modern and Contemporary artists. They are showcasing two exhibitions: NATURALIA” up through March 4th and “WILLIAM N. COPLEY: WOMEN”, up through March 25th.
“Paul Kasmin Gallery and Sotheby’s Old Masters Department will present their first collaborative exhibition, Naturalia, curated by Danny Moynihan. The show will be comprised of works spanning six centuries which share a fundamental focus on the examination of natural science and its myriad presentations in art.” ~ Read more here.
“COPLEY: WOMEN unites a selection of paintings that highlight the late artist’s preoccupation with the opposite sex, which he employed as an endless source for inventive figurative and narrative paintings that explored eroticism, sexual politics and the pursuit of pleasure. Originally defying painterly trends of the 1950s by making personal and narrative works, the self-taught artist developed a radical fusion of European Surrealist vernacular and a rogue, humorous American sensibility. Sex, eroticism and cultural critique were mainstays in Copley’s oeuvre of paintings that embraced idiosyncratic figuration, candy-colored palettes and Matisse-like decorative patterning.” ~ Read more here.
Richard Taittinger Gallery
Richard Taittinger Gallery works in Presenting works by contemporary artists with significant global recognition. Stop by their gallery, in the Lower East Side, to see their current exhibition: “The Wsanderers: Contemporary Painting From CLUJ”. It will be on through February 19th.
“For this exhibition, the curator has endeavored to make visible that, beyond the ascribed label of the Cluj School by way of international media, there is much more to be explored when considering this group of artists. Therefore, this multigenerational exhibition tracks a shared dialogue between masters and students in order to define certain Romanian traditions. Traditions, that has within the last decade, projected the painters of Cluj-Napoca, into the limelight, astounding the international art world.” ~ Read more here.
Lastly, to wrap up this great interview and a beautiful selection of hot spots in New York, we asked Jenna:
What does NYC mean to you?
“I could honestly answer this question so many ways, but I think NYC means being able to wake up each morning with every possibility in the world at your feet.
There is always something to do, someone to meet, something to see. To me, personally, it means perseverance. The people who live here are tough. For the most part, we all struggled in some way to get here, and continue to struggle now that we’re here. But somehow, it’s all worth it.
There’s no place in the world that can offer up this kind of experience to a person.”
Thank you Jenna for being part of our Insider Interviews and sharing these 10 great NYC tips.
Plus, don’t forget to check out her blog named the Blond Well Traveled.
Credits (Text and Photos): Courtesy of Wikipedia (Harriman State Park), Mwanner, Daniel Krieger, Jenna Rice and all the venues *Last Update on March/2020.*
If you are looking for that cute, neighborhood gift shop, then Pink Olive is the place for you! Don’t research more, and just go visit one of their locations!
New York City is know for the myriad of creatives spread through out the 5 Boroughs. The list of names with these artists is extensive and we love meeting them!
One of the names you should keep in mind, is Grace Kang. She started her successful career as a fashion buyer and worked for the biggest retailers like Saks, Bloomingdale’s and Barney’s. But, her childhood passion for stationary eventually came back in full force. So, after receiving awards as “Buyer of the Year”, Grace was read for her next challenge.
Moreover, she opened her first Pink Olive store in 2007, in the East Village. Today, she has other 4 location: East Village, in Manhattan, 2 in Brooklyn in Williamsburg and Park Slope and a last location upstate NY in Cold Spring.
Through out this journey, Grace extended her business. She created Olive School that focuses in empowering other artists to build a strong brand and work to make their product ‘retail ready’. In addition, she also launched OliveBox – a monthly subscription service directed to the paper-lovers out there.
Pink Olive is a great place to buy every thing from baby gifts, distinctive letterpress cards, handmade jewelry, to original artwork, books and fabulous vintage finds.
“Pink Olive is more than an ordinary gift shop. It’s a creative place with a mission to inspire giving and beautiful living. Let your imagination sparkle!”
In fact, her team has “the eye” it takes to make the brand and the store stand out! So, you will definitely find the perfect gift for every occasion – baby showers, birthdays, pregnancy, love, marriage, holidays, and the “just because” moments!
Similarly, if you’re not NYC-based or if you don’t have time to go to one of Pink Olive’s neighborhood gift shop, but need something specific, you can purchase online!
Plus, if you decide to pass by the Brooklyn store, you can just extend your visit and grab a delicious coffee at Freehold, in Williamsburg!
In the East Village, we love Hi Collar, and in the West Village, try a charming secret spot called The Elk. And still, close to the Park Slope location, grab a coffee and a chocolate at The Chocolate Room.
Now, if you decide to explore Cold Spring, in upstate New York, let our experts help you out and plan the perfect weekend! On the other hand, for arrangements for Corporate travel, we can also assist you and your team.
Hours: Check online for store hours of each location.
Locations:
439 East 9th Street, East Village
30 Charles Street, West Village
167 Fifth Avenue, Park Slope
80 Main Street, Cold Spring
Upstate NY is gorgeous. Juliette Hermant, Founder of Maison Bergogne, gave us a full itinerary so you can visit and enjoy a long weekend in Narrowsburg!
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Julie Holder Powell
Upstate NY is so beautiful and most visitors and even New Yorkers don’t know about the amazing people and places they can find.
Our Founder, Fernanda Paronetto, fell in love with Maison Bergogne, an antique, décor and design services shop in Narrowsburg, upstate New York. So, she decided to interview Juliette Hermant, the owner.
To start, Juliette Hermant is a painter, photographer and interior designer, who moved to the U.S. from Paris in 2007. She lived in Los Angeles working as an artist. Then, moved to the East Coast in search of a stronger sense of community.
Juliette didn’t really find it in Williamsburg (where she lived). Her strong, buzzing energy left her yearning for a different life. She wanted a place she could do meaningful work that was needed while feeling grounded in nature.
So, in 2012, she ended up in Narrowsburg, a historic Catskills hamlet perfectly situated along the Delaware River, just across the bridge from Pennsylvania.
There is a long history of artists in the town. So, it seemed full of potential to her.
Juliette acquired a beautiful brick 1920’s industrial building that had been boarded up and breathed new life into it, opening Maison Bergogne. She filled this emporium with antiques and vintage pieces, 90% of which are local to the Catskills, and offered her interior design services to local homeowners and businesses in partnership with Anie Stanley of Woolheater Wares.
She also set about engaging with the community to work on revitalizing the area. Moreover, this included developing a community garden and tending beehives on her rooftop. Over the years, she has become very invested in enhancing the town through initiatives with the Narrowsburg Beautification Group and Main Street Merchants.
Juliette’s interest in permaculture has crystallized through her latest venture Fish & Bicycle. Foodies and makers collaborate with her desire to serve the Catskill’s bountiful flavors through local feasts, while also passing on skills and knowledge.
Sharing flavors create bonds between people, which works to foster a sense of stable, collaborative community. Join them for a leap in the Catskills through their one-of-a-kind events & workshops and get a bite of their terroir cuisine with Fish & Bicycle’s catering services.
Fish & Bicycle Apiaries now offers the opportunity to join a honey-share, where your contribution supports permaculture ethics and edible pollinator’s friendly-gardens around her small town, as well as Juliette’s nearby Monarch butterfly nursery.
Launch date is still to be announced, so stay tuned!
Below are Juliette’s top tips in Narrowsburg and surroundings. It’ll be of great help to plan your Day-Trip or Weekend-Trip:
Part of Narrowsburg’s charm is its ideal location, perched above the picturesque “Big Eddy” of the Delaware River. Wild flora and fauna abound, including white-tailed deer, bald eagles and black bear. Lately, there has been an influx of New York City transplants and visitors to the area. In addition, new businesses are springing up.
The most beautiful approach to the town is along Route 97, a scenic byway that runs along the river. And, the nearest bus and train stations are more than half an hour away – in Monticello and Port Jervis, respectively. So, coming up by car is a good idea. (You can rent your car through our Concierge Services).
“In addition to his day job as Editor of Out Magazine, Aaron Hicklin runs a bookshop named One Grand Books, on Main Street.
He asked his glamorous circle of friends and acquaintances (including Tilda Swinton, Jay McInerney and Marianne Faithful) to name the 10 books they’d take with them if they were marooned on a desert island and has stocked the shop accordingly. Plus, occasionally, local authors have readings there.”
If you need time away from the city and want to be immersed in nature, this is surely what you’re looking for.
“Just a 5-minutes drive from town, this rustic 1950 timber-frame cabin delivers quiet seclusion in nature. Le Petite Cabine boasts private frontage on the bucolic Ten Mile River.
A clawfoot bathtub and an outdoor shower and a fireplace made of blue stone. In addition, plenty of old-fashioned in-the-mountains charm, thanks in large part to the artful styling of Maison Bergogne and Woolheater Ware’s collaboration.
You can also inquire about rental, time-share options and the nearby queer-friendly artists’ retreat with Smokey Belles.
Location: Nearby Narrowsburg hamlet & Delaware River
“With their special brand of tongue-in-cheek humor, set designer Roswell Hamrick and his partner, fashion maven Johnny Pizzolatto, bring loads of style and character to this delightful Stickett Inn.
Plus, it’s located just 20 minutes South, in Barryville. From the little shack in front that functions as kind of lobby—think Intelligenstia coffee, Malin & Goetz candles and locally made treats — to the themed rooms, outdoor hot tub and fire pits, it offers fun and relaxation in equal measure.”
“Co-founded by J. Morgan Puett, this artist’s enclave is situated on 96 rustic acres deep in the woods of rural Northeastern Pennsylvania. It’s just over the bridge from Narrowsburg.
In addition, the summer program at Mildred’s Lane includes Friday evening events in their gallery space on Main Street, in Narrowsburg. Plus, dinners onsite every Saturday following presentations by visiting artists. The artist-constructed bonfires are a highlight!”
“Just coming off its first season, this community market is held on Friday evenings, perfect for weekenders who want to stock up on locally grown produce and indulge in fresh fare, including beer, cider and spirits.
Narrowsburg Farmers Market is located at the Union, a new multi-use complex converted from the town’s former school. Plus, you will meet farmers, growers and “makers”. Charles Wilkin from 2Queens has been my beekeeping mentor and his knotweed honey is especially delicious!”
“Inquire at Maison Bergogne for a tour of this lovely garden dedicated to permaculture, heirloom plants and pollinator species, called Tusten Heritage Community Garden.
Inside are 22 raised beds designed by founder and artist Andrea Reynosa, who referenced the I Ching and used the elemental symbols as a template. So, if you’re lucky, you may get to taste some of the wonderful vegetables and herbs. And, it’s all grown by local residents and business owners.”
Location: Behind the Narrowsburg Public Library. From Bridge Street you turn down Demauro Lane by the Town Hall.
“This mini chain of eateries, Ba and Me, is a great example of the new fast-casual: delicious, healthy and totally addictive. Owner Nhi Mundy saw a real need for ethnic food in the area and opened up two Vietnamese cafes.
The first, in Callicoon (about 15 minutes north of Narrowsburg), is a glorified takeout window. The second, for which Maison Bergogne and Woolheater Wares collaborated on the décor, is over the bridge in Honesdale, PA. And, they also offer indoor seating. Don’t miss the summer rolls!”
“Charles Hadley Blanchard, known as the Dyberry Weaver (Dyberry is a tiny hamlet in Pennsylvania), is an artisan who makes magical things out of linen, wool, silk and local alpaca.
In his Main Street studio, Dyberry Weaver, you will discover sumptuous rugs, handbags and ponchos displaying great subtlety and craftsmanship. In short, his work is truly original and found only in Narrowsburg.”
Photo Credits: Courtesy of Gentl & Hyers, Julie Holder Powell, Juliette Hermant, Heidisbridge, Michael Mundy, Bette Blau & Steven Randazzo, Arden Wray, Laura Silverman and the venues. *Last Update on March/2020.*
We interviewed the art expert, Gisela Gueiros. This Brooklyn-based art connoisseur shared with us the most fantastic list of NY Tips. Come explore the city through her eyes!
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Victoria Will for Loeffler Randall
Our Founder, Fernanda Paronetto interviewed Gisela Gueiros: a guide to the Arts, Vogue Brazil’s Correspondent, Blogger about what is happening in NYC and a Master in Art History.
Plus, she’s the mom of beautiful twin boys…transplanted from São Paulo to Brooklyn.
So, see below her Top 6 NYC Tips + 1 artsy spot in Connecticut:
“I recently celebrated a friend’s birthday at the Blue Hill Farm, in the Hudson Valley. Leaving Grand Central Station it’s about an hour away. The tasting menu is made up of the freshest seasonal ingredients – many of them picked directly from the farm where the restaurant is located. Dan Barber is the chef-owner. Divine!”
Located in Pocantico Hills, in the Hudson Valley, Blue Hill Farm was previously owned by two brothers, until Ann Marlowe Straus was able to buy it from them.
But, this actually took years to happen, since they didn’t want to sell it.
Ann share a bit more about the story:
“Back then it was a dairy run by two brothers. What a mess! They had cows pasturing in the front yard, for god’s sake… And the barn and house were run-down and so dirty I couldn’t believe it. And, you know what? I loved it. I loved the open pastures, I loved the backdrop of blue hills, I loved that I felt like a queen every time I came up here.”
“In Brooklyn, where I live, one of the restaurant I most enjoy is French Louie. Besides the pleasant atmosphere, they serve the best appetizer ever – a type of French cheese bread called Gougères. Mmmmm!”
Located in Boerum Hill, French Louis is a French-American restaurant and café.
Owner Doug Crowell is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and has worked in every possible role at different restaurants, bringing him great experience.
In addition, the restaurant is named after Louis “French Louie” Seymour (C.1832-1915).
As they explain it better: “Mule driver. Lumberjack. Fisherman. Trapper. Happy hermit. Born in French Canada, young Louie Seymour ran away to America with the circus. He spent the rest of his long life in the Adirondacks, living off the abundance of the forest.”
Location: 320 Atlantic Avenue (b/t Smith and Hoyt), Boerum Hill
“My favorite gallery at the moment is Luhring Augustine, which has locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn. They showcase amazing installations that definitely makes other museums envious!”
The gallery was founded in 1985 by Lawrence Luhring & Roland Augustine.
Its principal focus is the representation of an international group of contemporary artists whose diverse practices include painting, drawing, sculpture, video and photography.
Furthermore, it’s surely one of the best galleries to visit while you’re in New York.
Location:
531 West 24th Street, Chelsea
25 Knickerbocker Avenue, Bushwick
“This shop sells ethnic doodads – clothes, towels, pillows, rugs and jewelry. You can spend hours just browsing. I love it!”
Initially the gallery was the home of modern Scandinavian furniture, and was founded in 1959 by Carl Koefoed’s parents.And, years later, became a shop for ethnic handicrafts.
Location: 66 Greenwich Avenue (b/t Perry Street & 7th Avenue), Greenwich Village
Van Brunt Street
“I love the surroundings of Van Brunt Street, in Red Hook. In addition to the charming restaurants, such as Good Fork, it has my favorite plant store, the Chelsea Garden Center. Plus, the recently opened research center for contemporary culture called Pioneer Works.”
“The Good Fork Restaurant and bar is located in Red Hook, Brooklyn, serving eclectic seasonal new American food in a warm and cozy setting.”
In addition, the Good Fork launched in March of 2006 and has thrived serving the wonderful Red Hook community and beyond.
“Chelsea Garden Center opened for business in 1984 on a rubble-strewn 2,700 square-foot corner of industrial Chelsea with just a garden umbrella, a cash box, a tiny cedar potting shed and a spare lot brimming with plants specially selected for urban and city gardens.”
Their first Brooklyn location at 444 Van Brunt Street adjacent to the new Fairway market on the waterfront in Red Hook.
“Through a broad range of educational programs, performances, arts and science residencies, and exhibitions, Pioneer Works seeks to transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries, foster community, and provide a space where alternative modes of thought are supported and activated in tangible ways.”
The organization was founded in 2012 by artist Dustin Yellin and is located in a 25,000-square-foot manufacturing warehouse in Red Hook.
“I’m crazy in love with Prospect Park. The park, which is the heart of Brooklyn, was designed by the same landscape architects responsible for Central Park – Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. The duo considered Prospect Park their masterpiece. The Park also houses the Botanical Garden and the Brooklyn Museum.”
And, a little bit of history about the park:
“In 1866, Stranahan and the park commissioners hired Olmsted, Vaux & Company to transform 585 acres of remnant forest and rocky farmland into a landscape whose beauty, though manufactured, would nurture the mind, the body and even the fabric of society.
At the heart of their design were the 90-acre Long Meadow, the woodland Ravine, meandering paths with scenic lookouts, and a watercourse that featured waterfalls, springs and the 60-acre Lake.
Plus, the Park officially opened in 1867, even though construction continued for another seven years, and it was an unparalleled success.
An 1868 report to the Brooklyn Park Commissioners noted that in July alone there had been more than 100,000 visitors to the incomplete park.”
“Despite being located in Connecticut, the home of architect Philip Johnson, in New Canaan, is only an hour away. Made entirely of glass, the house where the architect lived is in the middle of trees and has an annex that exclusively hosts his art collection. Lovely day tour!”
The Glass House, built between 1949 – 1995 by the architect Philip Johnson, is a National Trust Historic Site located in New Canaan, Connecticut. The pastoral 49-acre landscape comprises fourteen structures, including the Glass House (1949), and features a permanent collection of 20th-century painting and sculpture, along with temporary exhibitions. You can tour of the site from May through November and we recommend advance reservations.
So, what’s on?
Yayoi Kusama: Narcissus Garden, a landscape installation that will be on view throughout the 2016 tour season to celebrate the 110th anniversary of Philip Johnson’s birth and the 10th anniversary of the opening of the Glass House site to the public. First created fifty years ago in 1966 for the 33rd Venice Biennale, this iteration of Narcissus Gardenwill be incorporated into the Glass House’s 49-acre landscape. (Text extracted from website).
Thank you, Gisela, for this fantastic list of insider tips! We are always eager to know what you will share next.
Photo Credits: Courtesy of the venues, Portrait of Gisela Gueiros by Victoria Will for Loeffler Randall, Elizabeth Keegin Colley, Martin Seck, Panoramio, Robin Hill and Yayoi Kusama *Last Update on March/2020.*